The Nigeria Army and sister security agencies has held a joint route march aimed at fostering unity between the military and the paramilitary agencies.

The exercise, according to Brig. Gen. Henry Ayamasaowei, Commander, Headquarters Command Army Records, was also aimed at engendering peace and security in Kogi.

Ayamasaowei, who addressed the personnel after the exercise at Chari Maigumeri Barracks in Lokoja, said that the initiative would enhance understanding and ensure harmonious working relationship among the services.

“For us in the army, it is a routine exercise carried out every first Friday of the month, but we decided to involve our sister agencies to foster unity among security services.

“Asides the primary function of physical exercise to keep us fit and alert, it also engenders fellowship and builds mutual understanding among us.”

Briefing newsmen, the army officer said that the security agencies would gain more respect as members of the public would see them as one united front ready to protect everyone from any danger.

“For the criminals, this togetherness will send a clear signal that it is no longer business as usual,” he said.

He urged the personnel to work harder to stamp out kidnapping and other vices, and commended Gov. Yahaya Bello for donating vehicles and ensuring prompt payment of allowances to security agencies on the field.

Commenting on the exercise, Mr. Edward Ebouka, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations), said that the paramilitary and the military had a common purpose – preserving law and order, and protecting lives and property.

“When we meet like this, we develop synergies and get to know ourselves in order to foster unity and jointly combat criminality.

“Our unity will give the residents confidence that the law enforcement agencies and the military are on ground and prepared to rid Kogi of criminal elements,” he said.

Among security services that participated in the exercise were the army, navy, police force, as well as the immigration and prison services.

Others included the Customs, Department of State Services, Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency and the National Youth Service Corps.